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Yelich finding a comfort zone

Yelich finding a comfort zone

7/23/13: Christian Yelich grounds a single to right field, plating Jose Fernandez to give the Marlins a 3-1 lead in the fifth inning

By Joe Frisaro and Joe Morgan
/
MLB.com |

MIAMI -- It will take more than three straight hitless games to shake the confidence of Marlins rookie Christian Yelich.

In his 10th big league game since being promoted from Double-A Jacksonville, the 21-year-old responded with a two-hit effort and scored a run in the Marlins' 3-2 win over the Mets on Wednesday night at Marlins Park.

Prior to Wednesday, the left-handed-hitting left fielder recorded three straight 0-for-4 games.

The Marlins' top prospect, according to MLB.com, has always been a highly productive hitter, so he wasn't about to get rattled.

"I think there have been some good at-bats," Yelich said. "It's a short sample, nothing to worry about. I've struck out a couple of times, too, but that's going to happen."

What's significant about Yelich's development is that he feels he belongs.

"It's not like I feel overmatched at all up there or anything like that," Yelich said. "I've hit the ball hard sometimes, and they haven't found the holes. And there are some pretty good pitchers, too."

Before manager Mike Redmond moved Yelich to the leadoff spot three games ago, Yelich started off hitting second behind Adeiny Hechavarria.

But Hechavarria is a more aggressive hitter, and Yelich has better plate discipline and he draws more walks, so he was moved to the top.

"There is no pressure," Yelich said. "Obviously, everybody wants to get on base and help the team and get something started right away. It doesn't always work out that way.

"The more quality at-bats you put together over the course of time, it's going to play out in your favor. You'll be on base more times and be in position for the big guys to drive you in."